Don't wear them if you don't want to.

 

I have both chaps and overpants. I almost exclusively wear the overpants. They were only $100 from Branson Leather and have served me well. They are definately warmer than the chaps and do provide that extra level of protection for the buttock area, if I happen to go down. They are just as easy to put on/off as chaps and keep my jeans underneath nice and clean. So, I'm with you! I think overpants are a better idea. They are more expensive though.

 

I also do the overpants but all my buddies wear chaps, they do roll up very small to carry in case you need them.

 

I've got both and prefer chaps-- easier to deal with

 

If it is cold enough, I'll wear a snow mobile suit. Now thats a sight. Chaps are warm, comfortable, will protect you from road rash, pack easily, and because I can.

Never tried the leather pants but they kind of remind me of the worst period of history in our life...DISCO.

 

I let my dad borrow my leather overpants on his last ride. He was begging me to find some for him after that, he has chaps. Just saying for those who havent tried it, they are nice. Found mine on ebay, used, fully lined for 70 bucks.

 

What is the difference? I've never heard of leather over pants. I like to wear chaps on a long road trip, when it's really cold, or when it's raining.

and price may be an issue. It sounds like chaps may have less leather than leather over pants.... So they may be cheaper?

 

I have yet to wear chaps. Most of my street riding has been in the warmer months.

IMHO, chaps are for two functional reasons:

1. Limited protection. (You'll still cheese-grate your butt.)

2. Leg warmth in colder months.

Just fully realized reason #2 recently. Previously I had been good to go in colder weather with jeans. For some reason, this past Saturday I got chilled to the bone on an all-dayer that included some riding with temperatures in the 40's. Took me about two hours to really de-chill once home.

Thus, those new, never used chaps up on the top of the closet WILL be used next time during cooler weather.

Aside from the above functional reasons, I think there is another reason for many riders that wear chaps:

1. "Image" factor.

For some reason chaps are supposed to go with the "Harley Image"? You'll have to ask the HD long-timers as to "why".

 

You see a man in chaps and you think of a ladies long black stockings/garders? Hmmmmmm.

I own both chaps and overpants, if I leave home and need to wear something it will be the overpants. If I leave home and want to bring something with me to stuff into my saddlebag just in case it is the chaps.........and my long black stockings.

 

Strippers and hookers look gay? You are talking about female hookers that you've experienced..... right? hehehe.